Incubators
Return to LaboratoryDesign Guidance
Overall Strategies
Best Practices
- Determine whether “low temperature” incubators are being used when warmer temperatures (at or above ambient conditions) are required. Use more energy efficient “heating only” incubators when cool temperatures are not needed.
- Unplug incubators when not in use for extended periods of time.
- Do not use low temperature incubators as a refrigerator.
- When it’s time to upgrade or retire, choose an energy- and water-efficient incubator and buy the smallest size required to meet the lab’s needs. Humidification methods, chamber insulation, fan motors, internal lighting, and water technologies can all influence incubator system efficiency.
Compare Incubators Options
Federal Requirements
Guiding Principles
-
Energy Efficiency ( <span>Guiding Principles criteria 2.1</span>)
“Comply with all relevant statutory and regulatory requirements that establish Federal building energy efficiency standards and require the purchase, installation, and use of energy efficient products. Employ strategies that continue to optimize energy performance and minimize energy use throughout the operation and life of the building.”
DOE FEMP | Energy- and Water-Efficient Products
ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager
ANSI/ASHRAE/IES Standard 90.1
-
Indoor Water Use ( <span>Guiding Principles criteria 4.6</span>)
“Minimize the use and waste of indoor potable water, and in accordance with statue, implement water conservation technologies to the maximum extent that the technologies are life cycle cost-effective. Purchase water conserving products and ensure optimized indoor water operations to the maximum extent practicable.”
DOE’s Developing a Water Management Plan
FEMP | Best Management Practices for Water Efficiency
EPA | WaterSense
2018 IgCC Section 601